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Youth centre closures linked to greater risk of young people entering criminal justice system

Whilst youth services have been cut by 77% over more than a decade, violent offences among young people remain at unacceptably high levels warn the National Youth Agency (NYA), in its latest report, The social cost of youth work cuts: Preventing youth offending through youth work, published at the start of Youth Work Week, from 6 -12 November. Despite these startling figures, it costs four times more for a young person to enter the criminal justice system (£200,000 by the age of 16), than it does for them to avoid it through youth work provision (less than £50,000). (1)

The social cost of youth work report provides an analysis of 74 sources of academic literature and research evidence relating to the impact of youth work on young people in contact with the youth justice system. The report shows a clear association between reduced funding for youth provision and an increase in crime rates for some young people. 

Despite this, open access youth service expenditure has been disproportionately affected by austerity cuts. Furthermore, young people themselves are crying out for safe spaces with 24% of young respondents to a recent survey by the youth charity OnSide, reporting that they do not have a safe space to go to where they feel they belong. (2)

Whilst convictions have fallen by a third, for every 1,000 children in the population, 4.6 are still in the youth justice system, and their needs are becoming increasingly complex in the wake of the pandemic, as mental health rates soar and amid a cost-of-living crisis. (3)

Meanwhile, youth work saves £500 million on public spending through crime reduction alone and social return on investment research reveals that £1 investment in youth work is estimated to return £3.20 – £6.40 of value. (4)

The report cites the 2020 All-Party Parliamentary Group for Knife Crime focused on the impact of youth centre closures across the country, which revealed that each reduction in the number of youth centres corresponded to an increase in knife crime. This trend is echoed in a PhD study, completed earlier this year, which reviewed London youth centre provision published in 2023 by Carmen Villa-Llera, in the Economics Observatory at the University of Warwick. The research found that crime participation amongst 10-15 year olds increased by 10% in those London boroughs affected most by youth centre closures between 2010-2019. Furthermore, young people in these areas are 12% more likely to be suspended from school since the reduction in youth provision. (5)

Examples of where youth work is having a positive impact on youth crime rates, include the Linx Youth Project, Middlesbrough, which saw a significant reduction in crime amongst young people as a result of youth workers delivering support in the community (detached youth work), with the number of first-time entrants to youth justice decreasing by 79% over a four year period from 2016 to 2020. Furthermore, the project evaluation found that the social impact value for the service is £5.50 for every £1 invested. (6)

Meanwhile a Redthread youth work team working in the Emergency Department at St Mary’s hospital has brought about a 59% reduction in young people’s involvement with violence, and 37% reduction in involvement with crime, as a direct result of their engagement with a youth worker in the hospital.  (7)

The launch of The social cost of youth work cuts report from National Youth Agency coincides with their annual Youth Work Week national campaign, which this year is focussing on the added value that youth workers bring to the outcomes of young people through providing their particular support in a range of contexts and professional settings.  

Leigh Middleton, Chief Executive, National Youth Agency, said: “A lack of youth work isn’t just failing our young people, it’s also putting a strain on the public purse. Where youth workers are working in partnership with other allied professionals such as prison officer, youth offending teams, healthcare workers and teachers, we know that they are able to use their particular set of skills to capitalise on that ‘reachable moment’ and work with, and for, the young person to help them recognise that they can make positive choices about their future lives. 

“The NYA is working to build back the skills and capacity of the sector working closely with our academic and training partners, and through schemes such as the DCMS funded bursary and leveraging the government’s apprenticeship levy to enhance opportunities to attract people to youth work and to retain and upskill those already working in the sector.” 
Coach spending time mentoring a student athlete.

Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust, Ambition Project

At Youth Unity CIC, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of young people and guiding them on their journey to success. As part of our mission, we have partnered with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust to deliver a comprehensive mentoring program through our acclaimed Ambition Project. This initiative is designed to support personal development, boost confidence, and equip young people with the skills they need to thrive.

The Ambition Project: Supporting Personal Growth

The Ambition Project is at the heart of our mentoring efforts. Developed with evidence-based practices, it offers a structured approach to helping young people build essential life skills, such as resilience, effective communication, and self-management. Our mentors guide participants through personalised sessions that empower them to overcome challenges, set achievable goals, and navigate their personal and professional development paths with confidence.

Continuous Support for Mentors

Youth Unity CIC places great emphasis on the development of our mentors. Each mentor receives independent practice supervision, allowing them to reflect on their experiences, enhance their skills, and maintain their well-being. This approach ensures that mentors are not only equipped to provide high-quality guidance but also grow personally through the process, leading to more impactful mentoring relationships.

Measuring Success and Impact

We believe in the power of accountability and continuous improvement. That’s why we carefully track the progress and outcomes of our mentoring program, monitoring the frequency and quality of interactions between mentors and mentees. Our evaluation process includes both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as surveys, focus groups, and case studies, to capture meaningful insights. This data helps us understand the program’s impact, enabling us to fine-tune our approach and maximise the benefits for participants.

Strengthening Mentorship in the Community

A key component of our work with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust is ensuring that mentoring extends beyond individual sessions. We are dedicated to building a community where young people feel supported, heard, and empowered. By fostering strong connections and encouraging collaboration, we aim to create an environment where participants can grow not only through the guidance of their mentors but also through their interactions with peers.

Why It Matters

The partnership between Youth Unity CIC and Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust through the Ambition Project is more than just a mentoring program; it’s a commitment to helping young people unlock their potential and achieve their dreams. We focus on developing essential life skills, promoting well-being, and building self-confidence, which are all critical for success in today’s world. Whether it’s preparing for future careers, enhancing social skills, or gaining the confidence to face new challenges, our program offers a solid foundation for lasting growth.

We are proud to collaborate with Colyer Fergusson Charitable Trust in this initiative and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. If you’d like to learn more about the Ambition Project or find out how you can get involved, contact us today and be part of a community that’s shaping a brighter future.

 

Crime Scene at Night: Crime Scene Investigation Team Working on

Marks Gate in Barking & Dagenham, Levelling Up Program

Exciting New Partnership: Youth Unity and London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Bringing Youth Engagement to Marks Gate!

We are thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration between Youth Unity and the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham, aimed at engaging and empowering young people in the Marks Gate community! Over the next month, our dedicated Youth Unity team will be out and about, delivering detached youth work sessions. These sessions, including interactive street interviews, are designed to connect with local youth, listen to their voices, and build awareness of the exciting new youth centre coming to the area.

 

An inspirational coaching concept image showcasing a mentor giving personal growth and development advice, with a focus on career advancement, skill improvement, and achieving life goals.

MyEndz Redbridge: Your Pathway to Support and Success

Empowering Young People Through Mentorship: Youth Unity's Impact in Redbridge

Collaboration with the London Borough of Redbridge

Youth Unity is proud to collaborate with the London Borough of Redbridge and other local partners through a structured approach. 

At Youth Unity, we are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people across the London Borough of Redbridge. Each year, our mentorship program engages young people aged 11-25, providing them with the tools, guidance, and support they need to navigate life’s challenges and thrive.

Our Approach: Tailored Mentoring for Lasting Change

Our program is built on a foundation of personalised mentoring sessions. These sessions are designed to address the unique needs and circumstances of each participant. Through one-on-one guidance, we help young people develop essential life skills, improve their emotional well-being, and find positive pathways in education and employment

A Community-Driven Solution

This program is more than just a series of mentoring sessions—it’s a community-driven initiative that focuses on giving young people the support they need to flourish. Our commitment to collaboration ensures that we are continuously adapting and responding to the evolving needs of the young people in Redbridge.

Together, we are building a brighter future—one session, one conversation, and one young person at a time.

Multi cultural society and multiculturalism as a celebration of diverse cultures and diversity or African black pride as a multicultural social unity with people of different races united in a 3D illustration style.

Dartford Community Growth Through Mentorship, Training, and Sports

At the Unity Hub, we are excited to announce a series of engaging activities and programs designed to support and empower our community from September 2024 to July 2025. These initiatives are crafted to foster personal growth, build capacity, and promote positive engagement across different groups within our community. Here’s a breakdown of what we have planned:

Activity 1: Targeted Mentoring and Positive Attitudes

We will run weekly sessions focused on mentoring and fostering positive attitudes among young people aged 11 to 18. These sessions will take place during term time at Acacia Hall (Unity Hub). This program is designed to provide consistent support, guidance, and motivation to help young people thrive.

Activity 2: Training and Capacity Building

To strengthen the capabilities of local voluntary and community organisations, we will conduct a series of training session. These sessions will be available both online and face-to-face, catering to the needs of staff and volunteers from these organisations. This training will equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance their contributions to the community.

Activity 3: Community Podcast – THRIVE Support Network

We will produce a series of podcasts, providing a platform for sharing thoughts and experiences on a wide range of topics. These podcasts will be recorded at various venues and will cater to men of all ages, including those from organisations, charities, and community groups. The goal is to create a support network through open dialogue, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Activity 4: Futsal Sport Event

We are planning a 5-day Football Event during the school summer holidays in July/August 2025 at Buccaneer Bay, Dartford Central Park. Alongside the event, we will host a competition to capture and showcase the highlights in a video, promoting the spirit of teamwork and community.

 

Each of these activities is being designed to meet the unique needs of our community and to promote a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. We look forward to welcoming participants and making a positive impact together.

Each of these activities is designed to meet the unique needs of our community and promote a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. We look forward to welcoming participants and making a positive impact together.

Children hand-drawn happy and beautiful neighborhoods in stick figure style illustration. White background.

School Holiday Program: Unity HUB Comes to Harold Hill, supported by BETRA TMO

Our Media VAN, “Unity HUB,” is scheduled to visit Winsor Park Community Centre in Barking & Dagenham during the October school holidays. This initiative, funded by L&Q, aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and keep young people safe during the school break, a time that can often be challenging for parents and carers.

  • XBox
  • Table Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Badminton
  • Music
  • Street Chess

These activities have already received positive feedback from local partners and councillors. They are proving popular, keeping young people engaged, reducing anti-social behaviour, and supporting those at risk of exploitation. Our approach is effective and impactful.

Our mobile service not only provides these exciting activities but also creates a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop social skills, teamwork, and overall well-being. It’s a place where they can feel valued and supported by trusted role models, explore their interests, and grow as individuals. We are not only working with young people but also engaging the wider community to help forge relationships between generations. Similar projects have shown significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and ambitions among participants.

With the support of our funding, we can ensure proper supervision and provide the guidance and support young people need to reach their full potential.

windsor park

Unity HUB Media VAN to Visit Windsor Park Community Centre This October

Our Media VAN, “Unity HUB,” is scheduled to visit Winsor Park Community Centre in Barking & Dagenham during the October school holidays. This initiative, funded by L&Q, aims to reduce anti-social behaviour and keep young people safe during the school break, a time that can often be challenging for parents and carers.

  • XBox
  • Table Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Badminton
  • Music
  • Street Chess

Our mobile service not only provides these exciting activities but also creates a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop social skills, teamwork, and overall well-being. It’s a place where they can feel valued and supported by trusted role models, explore their interests, and grow as individuals. We are not only working with young people but also engaging the wider community to help forge relationships between generations. Similar projects have shown significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and ambitions among participants.

With the support of our funding, we can ensure proper supervision and provide the guidance and support young people need to reach their full potential.

Youth Unity

Safer Spaces – Temple Hill, Dartford

Our Media VAN “Unity HUB” is set to visit Temple Hill, Dartford through the school holidays for six weeks. This initiative, funded by the Community Safety Team at Dartford Council, the project aims to help reduce anti-social behaviour and keep young people safe during the school holidays, which can sometimes be a worrying time for parents and carers.

  • XBox
  • Table Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Badminton
  • Music
  • Street Chess

These activities have already received positive feedback from local partners and councillors. They are proving popular, keeping young people engaged, reducing anti-social behaviour, and supporting those at risk of exploitation. Our approach is effective and impactful.

Our mobile service not only provides these exciting activities but also creates a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop social skills, teamwork, and overall well-being. It’s a place where they can feel valued and supported by trusted role models, explore their interests, and grow as individuals. We are not only working with young people but also engaging the wider community to help forge relationships between generations. Similar projects have shown significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and ambitions among participants.

With the support of our funding, we can ensure proper supervision and provide the guidance and support young people need to reach their full potential.

5

Introducing Our New Safe Haven: A Hub of Opportunity and Growth!

The Youth Unity Team are thrilled to announce the launch of our static intervention service, a true ‘Safe Haven’ for young people! In partnership with the Community Safety Team at Havering Council.

This vibrant space is dedicated to providing a secure and welcoming environment where young individuals can come together to share their concerns, join support groups, and participate in a variety of engaging activities.

A Welcoming Space for Families

Our hub isn’t just for young people; it’s a community cornerstone where parents can visit to discuss their concerns and receive the support they need. We believe in fostering open communication and understanding to build trust with families and create a nurturing environment for everyone.

Building a Strong Community Network

Youth Unity is on a mission to establish a powerful network of partners across the borough. This collaborative effort will allow us to effectively guide families to a wide array of services, ensuring they have access to all the resources and assistance they need. Together, through community engagement and cooperation, we aim to create a robust support system that benefits both young people and their families.

Empowering Young People with Opportunities

We’re also excited to announce our plans to partner with local businesses to enhance and develop the hub. These partnerships will open doors to job placements and career development opportunities for the young people we support. Our ultimate goal is to provide clear pathways to employment, helping them gain invaluable skills and experience for a brighter, more promising future.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from our Safe Haven, where growth and opportunity come to life!

Morning city park with family having fun in the park,boys walking the dog,man talking on phone, kid playing, two guys reading a book under tree,City lifestyle of people in Summer time

Safer Spaces – Greenwich

Our Media VAN “Unity HUB” is set to visit the Titmus Avneue area of Greenwich through the school holidays for six weeks. This initiative, funded by the Safer Team at the Royal Borough of Greenwich Council, aims to help reduce anti-social behaviour and keep young people safe during the school holidays, which can sometimes be a worrying time for parents and carers.

  • XBox
  • Table Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Football
  • Badminton
  • Music
  • Street Chess

These activities have already received positive feedback from local partners and councillors. They are proving popular, keeping young people engaged, reducing anti-social behaviour, and supporting those at risk of exploitation. Our approach is effective and impactful.

Our mobile service not only provides these exciting activities but also creates a safe, inclusive space where young people can develop social skills, teamwork, and overall well-being. It’s a place where they can feel valued and supported by trusted role models, explore their interests, and grow as individuals. We are not only working with young people but also engaging the wider community to help forge relationships between generations. Similar projects have shown significant improvements in confidence, self-esteem, and ambitions among participants.

With the support of our funding, we can ensure proper supervision and provide the guidance and support young people need to reach their full potential.